For Individuals

Gender Affirming Care

Therapy can be a crucial place for those questioning or exploring gender identity. “Gender identity” is our inner sense of who we are, or where we fall on the spectrum of masculine to feminine, or completely gender-neutral. The therapeutic space provides safety and support to deeply reflect on feelings of alignment or incongruence between assigned sex and internal gender identity. A skilled therapist guides their client through this introspection using affirming approaches, which are open-minded, supportive and curious. At times, gender incongruence can stem from deeper issues around family stress, trauma, abuse, social rejection, or unsupportive social expectations. A good therapist can provide the space to sort through these issues in an individualized and supportive manner. 

Image of a transgender person lying on their bed in need of gender affirming care
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How Do We Provide Affirming Care?

At Newark Behavioral Health, our therapists are sensitive to issues of gender identity and committed to providing affirmative care to all, especially those in the LGBTQA+ community.  

First, we listen and hold space in a deeply respectful manner.  We encourage the client to become aware of any discomfort they feel toward their body, social roles, or how others perceive them.  The therapist may explore how and when these feelings first emerged in the client’s life, and help the client to identify any painful events that may have contributed to these feelings of discomfort.

  • Next, often the therapist facilitates open exploration of the client's preferred gender identity, supporting the client in considering how they want to be in the world, how they see themselves and hope others will see them. With each step, the journey is led by the client, and the therapist accompanies them each step of the way, allowing them to go where their most authentic self leads. The therapist consistently affirms their right to explore and helps process any shame or confusion. Creative methods like journaling, art, or movement can supplement verbal discussion of identity. At times, therapy may focus on how to communicate with parents, siblings, friends or other loved ones around all these feelings and changes.

    At Newark Behavioral Health, we are proud and happy to support our many Trans, Nonbinary and Queer clients on their journey toward self-understanding and self-acceptance.

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